Netflix planning show based on explorer Marco Polo

Empire writes that the television and film streaming service – which has produced a number of its own shows, including Orange Is The New Black, House Of Cards and the most recent series of Arrested Development – is starting a new project that will see the Venetian explorer dealing with war in 13th century China.

The show will begin shooting shortly at Pinewood Studios, Malaysia with a team that includes executive producer and creator John Fusco. Directors Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg will also be involved, as will executive producer and director Dan Minahan. The show does not yet have an official title, but will star a “global cast”.

Last year a Netflix representative, speaking to Variety, confirmed that the streaming service is “interested in doing another season of Arrested Development if it is logistically possible”. Having revived the cult US sitcom after a seven-year hiatus, Netflix launched 15 brand new episodes simultaneously in May 2013. Original cast members Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett and Michael Cera all reprised their roles as members of the eccentric and dysfunctional Bluth clan.

The new season received mixed reviews from TV critics and the show’s revised format – whereby each episode revolves around a single Bluth family member – proved divisive. However, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings insisted the show was a “huge” hit for the streaming service.